🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

518i

Model Generation:

E28

Model Code:

E28

Year:

1985

Chassis Code:

E28

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The BMW 518i (E28) was positioned as an entry-level luxury sedan, offering BMW's renowned driving dynamics and build quality at a more accessible price point than its larger-engined counterparts.

Competitors:

Competed against other mid-size luxury sedans such as the Mercedes-Benz W123/W124 E-Class, Audi 100, and Jaguar XJ series.

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned BMW 'Ultimate Driving Machine' characteristics, including balanced handling, responsive steering, and a comfortable ride.

Build Quality:

Exceptional German engineering and build quality, known for durability and longevity.

Design:

Timeless Giugiaro-influenced design, characterized by clean lines and a commanding presence.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Full Service and Repair

Secondary Coverage:

Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Overhaul

Estimated Page Count:

Estimated 500+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals of this era)

Type:

Workshop Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, searchable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

M10B18 inline-four cylinder engine, including fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic/Motronic), ignition, cooling, lubrication, emissions

Transmission:

Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission, ZF 3HP22 4-speed automatic transmission, clutch system, drive shafts, differential

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes (solid or vented depending on build date/spec), hydraulic system, parking brake

Suspension:

Front MacPherson struts, rear semi-trailing arms, springs, shock absorbers, sway bars, bushings

Steering:

Recirculating ball steering system, power steering system (if equipped), steering column, tie rods

Electrical:

Complete vehicle electrical system, wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, instrumentation, fuses, relays, ECUs (engine control unit)

Body:

Body shell construction, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, windows, locks, body panels, sealing

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system operation and service (if equipped)

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement

Repair:

Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake system repairs, suspension component replacement, electrical component troubleshooting and repair

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical failures

Diagnostics:

On-board diagnostics (OBD-I for this era), reading fault codes, sensor testing

Adjustment:

Valve adjustments, idle speed adjustments, brake adjustments

Special Tools:

Identification and use of specific BMW specialty tools required for certain procedures

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds and advanced electrical diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Digital Document (PDF)

Searchability:

Searchable text content for efficient information retrieval

Print Readability:

Optimized for clear printing, with legible diagrams and text.

Binding Style:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M10B18

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC

Displacement:

1.8 Liters (1766 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

89.0 mm x 80.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.5:1 (typical, may vary slightly)

Horsepower:

90 PS (90 hp / 66 kW) at 5500 rpm (DIN)

Torque:

140 Nm (103 lb-ft) at 3000 rpm (DIN)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection system

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (RON 91 or higher recommended)

Ignition System:

Electronic Ignition (CDI) with distributor

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

Getrag 260 5-speed Manual

Transmission Type Optional:

ZF 3HP22 4-speed Automatic

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch

Final Drive Ratio:

Typically 3.45:1 or similar, depending on transmission and market

Transmission Fluid Manual:

BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron III (or equivalent ATF) - Check manual for exact specification

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4620 mm (181.9 inches)

Width:

1700 mm (66.9 inches)

Height:

1410 mm (55.5 inches)

Wheelbase:

2700 mm (106.3 inches)

Front Track:

1444 mm (56.8 inches)

Rear Track:

1472 mm (58.0 inches)

Curb Weight Manual:

Approx. 1300 kg (2866 lbs)

Curb Weight Automatic:

Approx. 1340 kg (2954 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 1830 kg (4035 lbs)

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 480 liters (16.9 cubic feet)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

No formal Euro NCAP or NHTSA ratings from this era, but E28 chassis was known for robust construction. Manual would cover structural integrity and safety systems of the time.

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models.

Traction Control:

Not typically available on the 518i model.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts for front occupants, two-point for rear (typical).

Headrests:

Front and rear headrests.

Steering Column:

Collapsible steering column for improved occupant protection.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, often Blaupunkt or Becker units. Manual covers installation/removal and basic troubleshooting.

ABS:

If equipped with ABS, the manual will detail its operation, diagnosis, and service.

Early Features:

Limited by modern standards; focus is on mechanical and electrical systems, not external device connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-10,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000-40,000 km (20,000-25,000 miles).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 20,000-30,000 km (12,000-18,000 miles) or as needed.

Timing Belt Replacement:

N/A - M10 engine uses a timing chain.

Engine Oil:

API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (depending on climate). Consult manual for exact BMW approval.

Coolant:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron II or III (check specific manual for approval).

Common Wear Items:

Fuel injectors (especially on early L-Jetronic), distributor cap and rotor, spark plug wires, control arm bushings, wheel bearings, rear axle bushings (trailing arm).

Electrical Gremlins:

Corrosion in electrical connectors, aging wiring harnesses, failing relays, and instrument cluster issues are common in vehicles of this age.

Engine Management:

Idle control valve issues, vacuum leaks, and fuel pump degradation can affect performance.

Rust:

Rust can affect wheel arches, rocker panels, jacking points, and the trunk floor. The manual will guide on body inspection.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

BMW's enduring commitment to sporty sedans ('Sportlimousine') and driver engagement.

E28 Lineage:

Successor to the E12 5 Series, the E28 introduced significant technological advancements and a more modern design, setting the stage for future BMW sedans.

518I Positioning:

The 518i was the entry point into the E28 range, offering a balance of BMW prestige and affordability, particularly in markets with higher engine displacement taxes.

Production Years:

E28 production ran from 1981 to 1987. The 518i variant was available throughout much of this period, with specific market availability varying.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Germany, with some assembly in other countries.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

General Reputation:

The E28 generation of the 5 Series consistently received praise for its driving dynamics, build quality, and overall refinement, cementing BMW's reputation in the executive sedan market.